Scan Tool Recommendations

[HomeTheaterMan]

Does anyone have any advice on the best scan tool these days for an advanced DIYer? I do most of my own repairs and need something more advanced than what I've got now. I need it to be able to read abs and airbag codes, display live data, have bi directional controls to aid in testing, etc. I've been borrowing a friend's Snap On Zeus and while it's fantastic, it's way beyond my budget for something to use a few times a year on my personal cars. Of course asking my mechanic friends hasn't been any help. They all think anything other that what they bought is junk.

 

[cgrutt]

I've posted this before but my Autel 808P has really surprised me with everything it has handled for me. I think they may have transitioned this model to a "9" series. I paid about $750 several years ago. There are other 808s now available for much less but I'm not sure if they include same features. Believe Launch sells similar scanner but don't have any experience with those.

 

[HomeTheaterMan]

I've posted this before but my Autel 808P has really surprised me with everything it has handled for me. I think they may have transitioned this model to a "9" series. I paid about $750 several years ago. There are other 808s now available for much less but I'm not sure if they include same features. Believe Launch sells similar scanner but don't have any experience with those.

The MX808S is one I've been looking at. It
looks like it does a fairly wide range of things. It doesn't look like it can do any programming, but otherwise looks impressive for the price. It's definitely on the list of ones I'm considering, so positive to hear from someone that's had a positive experience with Autel.

 

[Firebrick43]

Does anyone have any advice on the best scan tool these days for an advanced DIYer? I do most of my own repairs and need something more advanced thanq what I've got now. I need it to be able to read abs and airbag codes, display live data, have bi directional controls to aid in testing, etc. I've been borrowing a friend's Snap On Zeus and while it's fantastic, it's way beyond my budget for something to use a few times a year on my personal cars. Of course asking my mechanic friends hasn't been any help. They all think anything other that what they bought is junk.

Are you working on a specific brand? What’s your budget?

True bidirectional control gets expensive on a tablet based scan tool that can do many brands

 

[HomeTheaterMan]

Are you working on a specific brand? What’s your budget?

True bidirectional control gets expensive on a tablet based scan tool that can do many brands

I'd like it to be able to do most brands, but I'm working on Honda's (including an Acura) and Toyota's 85% of the time.

I don't really have a budget set in stone, I'm just looking for the most bang for the buck. Although I'm not looking to spend $8k either. There appears to be a lot of sub $1k options that have a pretty impressive feature list, and that price range would be great. However, if something is significantly better, but costs $2k, I'm not opposed to it. I just don't want to pay 2x+ the price for something that isn't really any better. The $8k + SO stuff is just more than I want to spend.

 

[Roert42]

I don’t know about the Honda’s, but there is an aftermarket software available for ford computers called ForScan.

It’s open source mostly so constantly being updated when new vehicles come out. You can read and write to most modules, the newer stuff has more you can do. Chart sensor inputs, ect.

You can install it on any laptop and connect to your car with an OBDII to USB cable.


Could look and see if there is something similar available that works with Hondas software.

 

[DarryT]

I've always had sucess with inexpensive scan tools. That being said, some cars require specific software (looking at you BMW). Still, my $80 BM700 has been great for the Bimmer. For the Toyota, an Ancel AD310 - $25. I leave one in each car, for on the go troubleshooting.

 

[tiredoldironworker]

I really like my Autel MK808Z-BT. The Bluetooth dongle allows you to have your tablet right there under the hood. It will do some bi-directional stuff and live stuff.

 

[Stelzer]

I had the Xtool D7 that worked well for what it was, but after needing something more robust, I ended up taking the advice of @2ndGearRubber and purchased a Topdon Phoenix Lite 2 when it was on sale for $639. It's in a completely different league than the Xtool I have. The only thing I wish it had that it doesn't is topology, but you'd be hard pressed to find more scanner for less $.

 

[cvairwerks]

I've got a Foxwell for the Honda, but hate it with a passion. I've got the AutoEnginuity for my Ford diesels and love it. You can get the New version in a European bundle that will cover everything on Toyotas and Hondas, but key coding and a couple of other things. It's currently 1300$ and it also covers just about everything US made as well. Just need a laptop to run it.

 

[Wrench97]

Be aware that secure gateways are becoming a thing, currently found on Renault, Iveco, Fiat, Chrysler, Jeep, Audi, VW, Skoda, Seat, Mercedes, Ford, Nissan being the latest and others to come.
While requirements vary all require a scan tool with up to date software so take update costs into consideration when buying.
Others(Jeep/dodge/ram/Fiat require a autoauth yearly subscription of $50 to register your tool

 

[1Bad55Chevy]

My OTC Encore scanner finally died after 7 years of use and I am also in the market for a new scanner. I am torn between the Topdon Pheonix Lite 3 and the Autel MS906MAX. The Topdon is cheaper but I don't personally know anyone who actually owns a Launch based scanner.

My recommendation is to buy a more professional grade scanner. The professional level scanners have better hardware powering them and will still be working 5+ years from now.

 

[Skellyii]

I bought a MaxiPRO MP900-TS during the Black Friday sales. It's been great for a variety of vehicles (BMW, Chevy, Ford, Mazda), and includes TPMS support.

Like one of the previous posters, it has the bluetooth dongle, so that I can sit at my workbench and run diagnostics.

I've heard good things about the Launch models as well, but I haven't had the opportunity to try one.

 

[Fedwrench]

Look at ThinkCar, Topdon Phoenix lite, You can get a lot of tool for less than a $1000. No aftermarket scan tool is perfect. All of them even those off of a tool truck are a compromise at best compared to the factory OE tool but, no one can easily afford to have a wall locker of Factory tools. At work with have Ford IDS, GM MDI, and Chrysler (Stellantis) witech but even keeping those three current is getting too expensive. Think Car has a blue tooth & wired version of their 689 series tool that comes with free lifetime updates.

Official Thinkscan 689BT Bidirectional Scanner – Lifetime Free Updates

THINKCAR Thinkscan 689BT Wireless Scanner - OE-Level Diagnostics & ECU Coding. Official Store with CAN FD/DoIP, FCA AutoAuth. Authentic & Full Warranty.

mythinkcar.com

check You Tube videos for any scan tool that interests you. Just be sure to separate the infomercial from actual shop experience. Eric O used the Harbor Freight T10 scan tool, Jimmy making it work has used several lower priced scan tools. There isn't a perfect scan tool. Good luck in your quest.

 

[Chipm]

My Autel went in for repair and I needed something quick, so I got the Icon T7 from HF. It does everything you listed. i think it is sufficient for DIY needs.

Autel has wonderful warranty service, by the way.

 

[cgrutt]

The MX808S is one I've been looking at. It
looks like it does a fairly wide range of things. It doesn't look like it can do any programming, but otherwise looks impressive for the price. It's definitely on the list of ones I'm considering, so positive to hear from someone that's had a positive experience with Autel.

I don't really know the differences between all the models. Mine is a MP808 Pro, which I don't believe they make anymore and may have been transitioned to one of the "9" series. They do have alot of 808 versions available at different price points.

As far as ECU coding goes the only thing I know for sure about the MP808 Pro is I was able to code a used brake module with "As built" data on my F150 so the MP808 Pro supports at least a limited amount of coding. I've also seen videos where it unlocks "hidden" features on certain BMWs but I haven't used mine for that.

It has a surprising amount of capabilities though for sure, esp at the price I paid for it. Some of the projects it's handled (aside from routine reading/erasing codes):

Mercedes E350 - put braking module into service mode so I could replace pressure accumulator; replaced/reset six airbags and three seat belts that were set off by failed driveshaft (non-collision); reset adaptations after engine rebuild; deactivated legacy modules that are no longer supported by manufacturer (roadside assistance, etc); diagnosed electronic transmission issues and other sophisticated engine systems (intake manifold variable timing, etc).

BMW 328iX - diagnosed many engine issues and electronic sensors only one that it didn't handle 100% was a failed variable timing solenoid that was actually replaced with a new one that was also bad and lead me down an expensive rabbit hole ... needed to buy a scope and some assistance from this board to finally confirm issue and nail it down.

Ford F150 - brake module (recoding), EVAP issues (fuel tank venting solenoid), MAF sensor, COP misfires, etc.

Chrysler 300 - transmission solenoids and coding new Transmission control module to vehicle (basically just coding VIN to new module).

Note the only vehicle I had a problem with was a late model Honda - it would not connect to car. I forget model and year but it was within a few years ago. Worked fine on buddy's older (2015ish) Honda though.

Anyway, good luck.